Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek is a historic city in Teller County, Colorado, located on the western slope of Pikes Peak. Once one of the most important gold mining towns in the United States, it is now a popular heritage and gaming destination that preserves its 19th-century character while supporting a modern tourism economy.

Key facts

• Founded: 1890

• Population: About 1,100 (2020 census)

• Elevation: 9,494 feet (2,894 meters)

• County: Teller County, Colorado

• Primary industries: Tourism, limited-stakes gambling, and historic preservation

Gold Rush origins

Cripple Creek rose to prominence after the 1890 gold discovery that triggered Colorado’s last great gold rush. The region quickly grew into a major mining district with dozens of mines and a bustling population exceeding 20,000 by the early 1900s. The boom led to the creation of nearby towns like Victor and established Cripple Creek as a central hub of Western mining history.

Labor and economic history

The town became a focal point for labor activism, notably the 1903–1904 Colorado Labor Wars, which shaped national labor policy. Following the decline of mining, the community’s economy contracted for much of the 20th century until legalized limited-stakes gambling was introduced in 1991, reviving tourism and preservation efforts.

Architecture and attractions

Cripple Creek retains much of its late-Victorian architecture, including brick commercial buildings and historic hotels. Major attractions include the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour, and several museums dedicated to mining heritage. The city’s casinos and annual events such as Donkey Derby Days draw visitors from across Colorado.

Present-day role

Today, Cripple Creek functions as both a living museum and a gaming resort town, balancing historical preservation with economic development. It serves as a gateway to the scenic mountain landscapes of Teller County and remains a vivid reminder of Colorado’s frontier and mining legacy.